Which patient with drainage tubes is at risk for hypokalemia?

A patient with an NG (nasogastric) tube to suction is at risk for hypokalemia primarily because this situation often involves the removal of stomach contents, which can lead to the excessive loss of electrolytes, particularly potassium. When gastric contents are suctioned, not only is fluid being drawn out, but also important electrolytes like potassium are lost.

Potassium is a crucial electrolyte for maintaining proper muscle function, including the heart, and its depletion can result in serious complications such as arrhythmias or muscle weakness. The suctioning of gastric contents can exacerbate this issue, especially if the patient is not receiving adequate potassium replacement, whether through diet or intravenous means.

In contrast, patients with the other types of drainage tubes have different risks or do not experience significant electrolyte losses in the same way. Therefore, those using tracheostomy tubes, indwelling urinary catheters, or chest tubes to water seal are not typically at the same risk for hypokalemia as someone with an NG tube on suction.